pommel

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a handgrip that a gymnast uses when performing exercises on a pommel horse
  2. noun handgrip formed by the raised front part of a saddle
  3. noun an ornament in the shape of a ball on the hilt of a sword or dagger

Etymology

From Middle English pomel, from Old French pomel and Medieval Latin pomellum, pumellum, presumedly via Vulgar Latin *pomellum (“ball, knob”), the diminutive of Late Latin pōmum (“apple”). Compare French pommeau, Spanish pomo, and Swedish pumla.

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